The Chicago area has some of the finest hospitals in the country, and a recent study from a Washington-based nonprofit supports that claim. In our region, most patients can rely on the medical care and services they receive. Even though patients and their families expect top-notch care, sometimes, they may not receive it. That is when you must be careful.
How good are Chicago-area hospitals?
The unseen dangers of polypharmacy and medication errors
While many people equate medical malpractice with egregious errors such as surgical mistakes and missed diagnoses, the negligence can often be traced to numerous unexpected sources.
Understanding the risks and dangers of anesthesia
The safety record for anesthesia has improved dramatically in recent times.
Pfaff, Gill & Ports, Ltd. reaches $3 million settlement for cauda equina syndrome case
J.T., a 30 year‐old Chicagoland woman, presented to the Emergency Department at a local Chicago hospital with severe back pain. She was admitted to that hospital under the care of H.A., M.D., a hospitalist employed by United Elite Hospitalists, LLC.
Medical malpractice lawsuits in Chicago can lead to large payouts
When a judge finds a doctor or health care worker guilty of medical malpractice, it can result in large settlements. There have been some high-profile cases in the Chicago that demonstrate different aspects of medical malpractice, how these lawsuits can play out in court and the settlements that can result.
ABOTA asks Senate to Continue Allowing States to Govern Med-Mal Case
The American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) recently called on the U.S. Senate to reject the Protecting Access to Care Act of 2017 (H.R. 1215) and any similar legislation that seeks to thwart state-delegated powers to govern medical malpractice cases and to place a nationwide cap of $250,000 on non-economic damages in medical malpractice cases.
Qualifying factors for medical malpractice
Medical malpractice claims have dropped in recent years. According to recent reports, the total number of malpractice cases as well as overall payments for these cases dropped significantly between 2003 and 2015.
Prescription errors can have serious consequences
Prescription medication can play a vital role in treating and managing a variety of serious conditions. However, their efficacy can have a negative impact in the case of incorrect use. Unfortunately, several types of prescription errors continue to result in suffering and even permanent health effects for patients throughout the United States.
A Very Nice Settlement and Why Its Terms are Confidential
We recently settled a difficult liability case against a hospital, a medical corporation that employed a neurologist, and other parties. Our client suffered a spinal cord injury. Her future needs will be provided for and she is well pleased with the settlement. Bruce Pfaff, Matt Ports, and the firm's staff worked very hard on the case for years.
Speak Up by the Joint Commission - Help Prevent Errors in Your Care
N.B. What follows is the text of a pamphlet authored for JCAHO. We have reproduced it with our comment that this is good advice, whether coming from a health organization or a law firm. Healthcare settings can be dangerous and mis-information can lead to tragic consequences. Please do your best to communicate clearly with your healthcare team and to make sure they communicate clearly with you. You should know what the treatment plan is and make sure that is what happens. Please remember you have the right to discharge your doctor and replace him or her with someone whom you feel is more suitable. Good luck-Pfaff, Gill & Ports, Ltd.
